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CHILBLAINS Overview Chilblains (also called perniosis or blain), is a medical condition caused by exposure of skin to damp cold. Small blood vessels below the skin are damaged, but there is no freezing of tissue or numbing, thus distinguishing it from frostbite. Chilblains do not usually cause permanent injury, but can result in damage if left untreated. Some patients have reported a sensitivity to cold in the affected area, long after the condition has healed. They are most common in the young and the elderly, and are more likely to occur in women. They can be prevented by keeping the feet and hands warm in cold weather. A chilblain can chap, crack, or ulcerate; and then is known as a kibe. Chilblains usually heal within 3 weeks. Symptoms
* Itchy skin inflammation Treatment
* Keep area warm Prevention
* Avoid cold exposure
Page last modified: May 2008 |
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